SSEN HVDC Centre, Cumbernauld

The new, bespoke High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Training Centre located in Cumbernauld, was delivered on behalf of SSEN and is one of the most advanced technical facilities in the UK. The HVDC Centre tests the efficiency of how electricity travels through the UK network and will lead to new enhancements in connecting more remote renewables (Offshore) as well as creating a better understanding of issues and security.

The centre aims to maximise the benefits of the investment in HVDC systems by:

Supporting HVDC Transmission planning

Facilitating complex HVDC schemes and multi-vendor solutions.

De-risking HVDC schemes.

Training Operational Engineers

Operational Optimisation; and

Modelling new HVDC technologies

The facility is centred around a powerful simulator, which will simulate the AC network in real time which will allow the HVDC specialist engineers to monitor and assess the efficiency of the network. RTDS® Technologies has been selected to provide this simulator to the Centre.

The design approach of the building is deliberately intervention, avoiding pastiche. It is representative of the cultural circumstances in which it is constructed. The design limits the materials to composite panelling, standing seam roof, curtain walling with an entrance pod formed from rainscreen panels providing a distinctive entrance. The focus was on function while trying to introduce a setting that allows for a performance. The facility also must operate as a day to day office and provide comfort for its daily users. The industrial appearance inside sets the functionality of the building with the ceiling and lighting design along with the layout providing the theatrics and comfort.

Arc-Tech delivered a full turnkey Mechanical and Electrical service for the contract which included: